Lead Operator- Surface Water

Earn up to $5,000 in hiring incentives as a Licensed TCEQ Water Operator! Incentive amounts are based on your license grade:

• Grade C License - $2,500
• Grade B License - $3,500
• Grade A License - $5,000

About the role

The City of Pearland, TX is seeking a full-time Lead Operator - Surface Water to lead and improve day-to-day operations of our Utilities - Surface Water Department. This position is ideal for a service-oriented individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor water quality by performing laboratory tests at various stages in the treatment process, including tests for chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, odors, and other necessary tests.
• Operate mechanical equipment including pumps, motors, chemical feed pumps and systems, air compressors, and valves; operate hand and power tools.
• Operate chlorination equipment; perform maintenance on chlorine system including chemical piping system; calibrate chemical feed equipment; change chlorine containers when necessary.
• Demonstrate the ability to extensively control SCADA systems without automation.
• Inventory bulk chemical supply and take delivery of bulk chemicals.
• Maintain operational logs and records.
• Perform daily rounds and analyze plant trends to predict and prevent issues.
• Monitor and interpret instrumentation and control systems, evaluate data, and respond to routine alarm conditions to make necessary process or equipment adjustments based on written and verbal guidelines.
• Calculate flow changes to maintain adequate storage levels in GSTs and ESTs, as well as system pressure.
• Calculate sludge production and help manage disposal.
• Provide operation, maintenance, and safety training to junior personnel.
• Monitor integrity test performance, conduct routine backwashing, recovery cleans, and maintenance cleans on membranes.
• Backwash and conduct analysis as prescribed on the GACC vessels.
• Remedy maintenance clean issues as they arise.
• Remedy recovery clean issues as they arise, under the direction of the Process Control Supervisor (PCS) or the Plant Manager.
• Work a 12-hour shift schedule that rotates every four months.
• Cover for other operators' PTO as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School graduation or GED equivalent, supplemented by specialized courses/training in the water industry or related field. Preferences include college courses or certification(s) in environmental science, microbiology, or chemistry.
• Five years of working experience in surface water treatment. Experience with membrane filters is preferred.

Qualifications

• TCEQ Class B Surface Water Operator License (required)
• TCEQ Class A Water License (preferred)

Pay

Competitive hourly salary of $25.76 - $27.89 based on experience and qualifications. Certification pay is available for licenses higher than required for the position.

Benefits

• The city pays all premiums for employees' dental, long-term disability protection, and life insurance, plus the majority portion of the medical premium for employees and their dependents.
• Retirement plan through the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with a 2:1 employer match.
• Access to the city's recreation fitness center.
• Employee assistance program.
• Educational assistance.
• 11 paid holidays and 2 designated paid holidays.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Active wellness program focusing on physical, mental, and financial health.

Schedule

12-hour shift schedule that rotates every four months.

About the City of Pearland

Pearland is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, known for affordable housing, outstanding schools, safe neighborhoods, and a superb quality of life. Ranked as one of the top ten safest cities in Texas, Pearland offers a secure environment for families. Located just a short 20-minute drive from downtown Houston, residents can enjoy professional sports, world-class cultural amenities, and recreation.

Employees of the City of Pearland use multi-directional communication and cross-functional teams to promote a greater understanding of the organization. The city fosters a culture of continuous learning, encouraging and supporting employee development and growth. Innovation is not only supported but encouraged in this work environment.